From The Pages Of The Ponca City News, Thursday, October
3, 1996
LOCAL
Voters Must Decide On Upping Sales Tax
Letters Say
Playhouse Hosts Set Design Workshop
Better Breathers Support Group Meets Tuesday
Pioneer Tech Advisory Panels Hold Meetings
Festival of Angels To Publish Map Of Lighted Areas
Voter Registration Ending Oct. 11 for General Election
'Advance Directives' Plan Set for Forum Discussion
Pioneer Tech 'Chef Series' Begins Oct. 8
Authentic German Bratwurst Available in P.C. Saturday
Nationally Known Guitarist Will Perform at Oktoberfest
Ponca Bowmen Continue Archery Tradition
Boyer Elected To Full Term With OMPA
DEATHS
Rilma Edna Allen
George A. Ratliff
Bessie Mae Burton
Funerals
Clayta B. Francis
Services Pending
Michael Don Taylor
NEWS BRIEFS
SPORTS
Morrison Puts No. 1 Ranking on Line
Tonkawa at Newkirk, 7:30
Guess Set To Focus On Defense
Area Football District Standings
LOCAL
Voters Must Decide On Upping Sales Tax
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Next Tuesday Ponca Citians will be going to the polls to decide if they
want to support the Poncans For More Jobs "Phase II" jobs creation
effort.
Tuesday the voters are being asked to assess themselves and others who shop
in Ponca City an additional five-year, half-cent sales tax to be devoted
to economic development.
In January 1994, Ponca Citians went to the polls to give a resounding endorsement
for a 10-year half cent sales tax to bring Thorn Apple Valley and other
industry to Ponca City. A total of 4,390 voters carried the 1994 proposition
with only 1,116 voting against.
The 1994 tax was used basically for incentives. These funds are committed
and there are no funds for incentives for more industry in the short term.
Phase II goal's, as listed by the Poncans For More Jobs, would be devoted
to assisting smaller companies with growth potential; recruitment of companies
that pay an average of $10 an hour or more - plus benefits; recruitment
of companies which will commit to hiring local people first, and more assistance
for local companies.
The mail-out literature says, "As Ponca City faces the future, we have
prepared a workable plan that will continue our economic expansion and assist
us in offsetting potential job layoffs."
The literature claims the 1994 tax issue has provided $20 million in new
payrolls to Ponca City families; new tax revenue, paid by industry to schools
and city; decreased unemployment from 9.5 to 6.5 percent, and $8 million
in retail sales to Ponca City businesses by the new companies.
Those wishing to vote by absentee vote, can do so Monday in person at the
Kay County Election Board in Newkirk, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Polls will be open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Tuesday for regular voting.
Letters Say
Editor, The News:
I grew up in Ponca City and, to be quite honest, upon graduation from high
school immediately left for college - I could not wait to get out! Years
later, after living in Oklahoma City, Breckenridge, Denver, Lake Tahoe and
San Diego, I could not wait to get back.
You see, Ponca City has so much that the other "paradises" do
not. Granted, much of what our city offers to me is emotional. I have fond
memories of my school days, family and friends. In living in other places
I have discovered the true value of the wonderful academic and cultural
training I received here. I also realize the freedom I had in this environment
to spread my wings a bit while at the same time under the shelter of a community
who knew who I was. I also have an emotional attachment to the history of
our community and to the forefathers who left us so rich a heritage. Many
of the places I have lived have been larger, but none larger in spirit.
After our daughter was born, Chuck and I knew that we wanted to return to
this type of environment. We wanted her to have a safe, nurturing, caring
community in which to grow. We wanted her to have the best in education
and exposure to cultural events while at the same time have some freedoms
that are not possible in large cities and metropolitan areas. We were delighted
when we both found employment right here in my home town. (So now she even
gets the added advantage of growing up near Grandma and Grandpa!)
But we want one thing more. We want her to be able to go to college and
then to return to make her home here. I know she, too, will have the emotional
attachment which I have, but will there be attractive opportunities to enable
her family to make a living here? The question is before us now. Can Ponca
City continue to bring the types of employers to our city which will create
the jobs that in turn will bring continual new life back into our community?
Having lived in many places and been involved in business in all of them,
I know that from a business standpoint, Ponca City makes good economic sense.
We have good schools, low crime, relative low cost of living, strong churches,
warm community spirit, great cultural events at unbelievable prices compared
to large cities and diverse recreational activities. People in San Diego
couldn't believe that we would leave sunny California and the "fast
track." As their cost of living escalates higher and higher and crime
continues to encroach on their freedom to move about as they once did, they
can't believe how lucky we are to have the lifestyle we have. People desire
this quality of life.
So if it's so good, why aren't companies just flocking to us? The unfortunate
side of all of this is that it just isn't that easy any more. No one likes
the fact that now companies receive incentives to move into communities.
But it started somewhere, somehow and now that is how the game is played.
An additional sales tax is a sacrifice, but it is small in comparison to
the benefit that all of us will receive. If we want to compete for the good
companies and jobs, we have to bring something other than our "personality"
to the table.
My family is voting "yes" on Oct. 8. We want long-term growth
and development. We want continual new life being breathed into our community.
We also want existing Ponca City businesses to be able to benefit from the
loan pool that this sales tax will create. We feel that this is a winning
situation for all of us. As new jobs are created and business grows, so
do all of us - our tax base is strengthened, our economy is stabilized and
we all can continue to live in a great community.
The downsizing, right-sizing and out-sourcing by our major employer is not
what any of us expected or wanted as we planned our future years ago. But
it is happening and now there is no time to waste by wishing, whining or
wondering. Many communities are in the same position. Ponca City has had
a jump on many of these communities by the vision which our Economic Development
Foundation laid out several years ago and acted upon. We can't stop now
or the momentum will not only be lost, but may never be regained as other
communities step up to the "incentive plate" in this game.
Please join us in voting "yes." Let's secure a future for our
children and lead the way in showing them how to turn unfortunate situations
into opportunities. Let's leave them a legacy of hard work and a willingness
to sacrifice for the common good. Vote "yes."
Lana Van Cleave
Editor, The News,
As a citizen of Ponca City, I feel a certain reluctance in supporting the
proposed one-half cent sales tax.
I cannot help feeling that the results of spending more and more tax dollars
on a problem is, ultimately, futile, generally making a problem worse or
having no lasting effect at all. Indeed, as a general rule, the history
of such efforts is, at best, spotty.
Taxes have a way of becoming permanent seeming capable of only growing and
never reducing or disappearing. Thus it is incumbent upon all tax payers
to think long and hard before burdening themselves with any new taxes. Although
the need for the growth of this city's industrial base is clearly critical;
it is not nearly so clear as to what is to be done; especially if it concerns
any kind of taxation.
I'm afraid that I cannot just accept the claims of the EDF about just precisely
how much or little that organization has contributed in getting various
companies to locate in Ponca City. It may be that the EDF has indeed been
a driving force in finding and inducing new industries to settle here, but
we citizens don't know that, and until we do, I don't feel we should quietly
and hopefully agree to pay more taxes to support the EDF, whose efficacy
has yet to be determined.
Time is important, yes, but a little more thought and less speed at this
time would seem to be in order. Businesses come and go but taxes are permanent.
H. P. Hinkle
Editor, The News,
In his recent "Frankly Speaking" column, Gov. Keating made a mistake
common to those who are not familiar with our public school system.
Attempting to make the case for school choice, the governor claimed an aspiring
physicist who attended a school that didn't offer a physics course would
be denied his dreams because, according to Keating, he couldn't transfer
to another school which included physics in its curriculum. That's a good
story, but unfortunately, it is untrue.
Oklahoma currently has one of the most liberal open transfer policies in
the nation, including a statute specifically allowing the immediate transfer
of any student whose school does not offer the curricula that he or she
desires. In short, the analogy spun by Gov. Keating could never happen in
Oklahoma.
This isn't the first time Gov. Keating has demonstrated a lack of knowledge
about public education or an inability to grasp the challenges the average
Oklahoman faces. For example, in recent letters to the editor and his Speaking
Frankly column, Gov. Keating assumed that "any parent can send his
or her child to a private school tomorrow." That statement ignores
the harsh financial formalities confronting most parents today. Certainly
a person of great wealth like Frank Keating can afford to send his children
to private schools, but the vast majority of regular folks cannot. That's
why we have public schools and that's why Oklahomans have fought so hard
to improve them.
Despite what the detractors say, those who are united behind public education
will continue to work for better schools. Our job would be much easier if
Gov. Keating would show even a remote interest in the betterment of our
public school system, instead of issuing erroneous statements designed to
denigrate public education. Careless talk about pressing issues is damaging,
coming from the state's highest elected official.
Make no mistake, public school supporters will continue to advance education
in Oklahoma.
Senator Enoch Kelly Haney
Playhouse Hosts Set Design Workshop
The Ponca Playhouse will conduct a workshop on "How to Design and Build
Movable Sets" Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 301 South First Street.
The workshop will be conducted by Clayton Karkosh, a retired professor from
the University of New Mexico. Karkosh has a degree in architecture and theater.
Recently he designed the set and directed the Playhouse's production of
"The Octette Bridge Club."
The morning session will cover design techniques from 9 a.m. to noon while
the afternoon session from 1-4 p.m. will concern building ideas. The workshop
costs $10, students or Oklahoma Community Theatre Association members pay
$5. To register call 765-5360.
Better Breathers Support Group Meets Tuesday
St. Joseph Regional Medical Center's Cardiopulmonary Department and St.
Joseph Medical Equipment have joined forces to organize a new support group
for Ponca City and surrounding communities.
The Better Breathers Support Group will meet Tuesday at 6 p.m. in Conference
Room B at SJRMC.
The meeting is open to any individuals who are suffering from Chronic Obstructive
Pulmonary Disease or COPD. COPD includes disease such as chronic bronchitis,
emphysema and asthma.
"If people are interested in joining the support group, they should
attend this meeting," said Sheryl Bryan, RRT. "Their input will
help us decide the best information to cover in the group's future meetings."
Bryan said she hopes the support group meetings will become a time where
members can discuss their disease with doctors, respiratory therapists and
nutritionists and find ways to cope with their daily struggles.
"We'll be working with our medical staff to schedule times when they
can visit the group meetings to discuss topics important to people with
COPD," added Bryan.
If you are interested in joining this support group, make plans to attend
the first meeting this Tuesday. If you have questions, please call Sheryl
Bryan, RRT at (405) 765-8155.
Pioneer Tech Advisory Panels Hold Meetings
Pioneer Technology Center recently held its first advisory committee meetings
for the school year. The meetings were held on the campus in each department
at various times throughout the day.
Pioneer Tech employees hold meetings at least twice a year with the advisory
committees. Advisory committees have been a requirement since vocational
education began in Oklahoma. The committees are organized, mainly with people
from the community, to assist in making a vocational education program as
efficient and effective as possible so that industry and students are served
to the greatest advantage.
"The people that serve on the committees are a valuable asset to Pioneer
Tech," said Velta Reed-Johnston, Superintendent. "Having representatives
share their time and expertise is extremely wonderful. When the school and
community work together, our students are the ones who really benefit."
Vocational education was established to provide training and many services
to help develop skills for employment for business and industry. Advisory
committees provide the link between the school and industry by informing
the school of the needs of industry.
Committee members may serve a term of one year or longer. Provisions are
made for replacements, so there will always be experienced members serving
on the committees.
Festival of Angels To Publish Map Of Lighted Areas
The Festival of Angels is planning to publish a map of all the lighted and
decorated areas in Ponca City again this year. The map will include the
special lighting displays at Lake Ponca Park, Cann Gardens, Pioneer Woman
Statue, Cultural Center, and downtown.
All churches, schools, neighborhoods and businesses who plan to be decorated
for the Festival should contact Missy Morland at the Ponca City Tourism
office, 767-8888 to get their area or building on the map. Deadline is Oct.
11.
According to Kathy Adams, chairman of the Festival of Angels, "approximately
25 neighborhoods banded together to light up their block in 1995. Many groups
created a special theme for their area with angels and wreaths and even
candy canes," she said.
"A number of creative folks have made special angels to attach to lamp
posts along their streets and several churches have notified us of their
plans," she continued.
Festival of Angel maps will be available Nov. 1, at Angel Central headquarters
in the Pioneer Shopping Center on North Fourteenth Street and at the Ponca
City Tourism office at Fifth Street and Grand Avenue.
The Festival of Angels starts Nov. 29 and continues through Dec. 31.
Voter Registration Ending Oct. 11 for General Election
NEWKIRK - Citizens must register to vote by Oct. 11, to be eligible to vote
in the Nov. 5, general election, according to Kay County Election Board
Secretary Carol Stafford.
"People who are United States citizens, residents of Oklahoma and at
least 18 years old may apply to become registered voters," Stafford
said.
The Kay County Election Board will respond in writing to each person who
submits an application for voter registration. The response will be either
a Voter Identification Card listing the new voter's precinct number and
polling location or a letter explaining the reason or reasons the application
for voter registration was denied.
Any person who has submitted a voter registration application and who has
not received a response within 30 days should contact the Kay County Election
Board office at (405) 362-2130, Stafford recommended.
Oklahoma Voter Registration application forms are available at the County
Election Board office at the Kay County Courthouse and all post offices.
Applications are also available at the following Kay County locations: Ponca
City Tag Agency, 2101 North Fourteenth Street; Blackwell Tag Agency, 111
West Blackwell Street; Newkirk Tag Agency, 101 North Main Street; and Tonkawa
Tag Agency, 100 East Grand.
'Advance Directives' Plan Set for Forum Discussion
"Preparing for End-of-Life Decisions" is the topic of discussion
for the 1996 Ethics Forum, sponsored by St. Joseph Regional Medical Center
of Northern Oklahoma, Inc. The forum is scheduled for Oct. 15, and session
times at 3 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. are available for the public to attend.
Jan M. Slater, former vice-president of operations for SJRMC and current
in-house legal counsel for St. John Medical Center in Tulsa, will be the
featured speaker. Slater will be discussing "Advance Directives"
and what process individuals need to go through to prepare an advance directive
for themselves.
An advance directive is a document of instruction for family and health
care providers to carry out an individual's wishes should he/she become
unable to make decisions regarding health care treatments. The advance directive
is a tool to help enforce the "Oklahoma Rights of the Terminally Ill
or Persistently Unconscious Act," signed into law in 1992.
The advance directive form has two parts: a living will and an appointment
of a health care proxy. An individual may complete one or both parts of
the advance directive. The living will takes precedence over the health
care proxy's decision unless the patient indicates otherwise.
Slater will also address questions such as: "Who should have an advance
directive?" "Where should your advance directive be kept?"
and "When does an advance directive become operative?"
A panel discussion is scheduled and panel members include: Sara Jane McGee,
MD; Mary Winters, RN, MSN; Sister Clarita Waner, pastoral care and Julie
Jones, consumer. The panel will give insight into the importance of an advance
directive and answer questions from the public.
The forum will be held in SJRMC's cafeteria and Conference Room B.
If you have any questions regarding the Ethics Forum, call Sr. Mary Kay
Liston, CSJ, at (405) 765-0581.
Pioneer Tech 'Chef Series' Begins Oct. 8
Interactive satellite seminars featuring seven seminars on "The Great
Chef Series" will be presented at Pioneer Technology Center's business
and incubator building beginning Oct. 8 through June 5.
The seminars will have live cooking demonstrations by some of the world's
most professional, well-known chefs. Presenters will highlight different
cooking techniques. Participants can call in questions as the food is prepared.
Presenters will be restaurant owners, authors, business people and journalists.
Some presenters will be Theo Schonnegger, Pierre Herme, Ed Brown, Chris
Schlesinger and Michel Guerard.
Each hour-long seminar will be broadcast from the Culinary Institute of
America at 3 p.m. CST.
For more information on registration, contact Bob Wallace, Pioneer Technology
Center, 2101 North Ash Street, Ponca City, or call 762-8336, ext. 272.
Authentic German Bratwurst Available in P.C. Saturday
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
October and festivals always bring to mind Bratwurst and one doesn't have
to go to Germany to get the authentic taste as it's being produced in Tonkawa,
by a transplanted German.
Peter Uhlig, husband of Sharon Uhlig, longtime employee of the Ponca City
Country Club, is making German Style Bratwurst at the Tonkawa Meat Processing
Plant.
Uhlig tells how he got into the business, "When I decided to move to
Marland, about two years ago I had planned to work on my own land, have
some cattle, a few chickens, a dog, and maybe a horse.
"Today I have all the animals except for the horse, it turned out to
be two ponies. Besides all this I made Bratwurst once for our own use and
for some people that wanted it from me. I produced the Bratwurst after an
old German recipe which I had brought to Oklahoma from my home country."
Peter's Bratwurst became so popular that Peter and Sharon decided to go
into the business. The trouble was they couldn't sell it out of their home
because of health regulations that had to be met.
So one day when he went with a friend to the Tonkawa Meat Processing Plant,
they told him he could produce the Bratwurst at their plant because they'd
had some request for the product.
Currently the food product is being marketed under the label "Peter's
Original German Style Bratwurst." Plans are to market it through supermarkets
across the state including United Supermarkets.
On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Uhlig will be demonstrating at United
Supermarkets, where the product is available. The Bratwurst is also available
at the Blackwell Supermarket, Buy For Less, and Miller Market is using it
in the deli.
Peter was too late to get into the Oktoberfest, but plans are to sell Bratwurst
at the Lions booth at the upcoming Standing Bear Celebration.
Nationally Known Guitarist Will Perform at Oktoberfest
By LOUISE ABERCROMBIE
News Staff Writer
Oktoberfest goers are in for a rare treat as both Edgar Cruz, solo guitarist,
and Mark Cruz and the Pavlovian Dogs, rock and roll band, take to the stage
during the weekend event.
Slated for the Marland Estate, Mark and the Pavlovian Dogs will be on the
main stage from 5:45 to 8 p.m. Saturday for dancing and listening pleasure.
A nationally known guitarist, Edgar Cruz, of Oklahoma City, who has performed
in Ponca City numerous times, will take center stage on Sunday from 12:45
to 2:15 p.m. Both Mark and Edgar have impressive musical performance careers.
Besides great entertainment, a number of arts and crafts booths will give
the shoppers and lookers a variety of opportunities to choose holiday decorations
and everyday gifts.
Youth activities offer a variety of fun for the children. In addition to
games and other activities, there will be magicians and ventriloquists entertaining
throughout the two-day Oktoberfest.
Seventeen food vendors are to be on hand to cater to the public's appetite.
Also authentic German fare will be served by Apple Cart in E.W.'s restaurant
on the Marland Estate, from noon to 8 p.m., Saturday and from 11 a.m. to
3 p.m., Sunday.
The proceeds from the event go for restoration of the Marland Estate. The
event is sponsored in part by the State Arts Council of Oklahoma. Admission
is $2 for those 12 and older, $1, for children 7 to 11 and those under six
are admitted free.
To relieve the parking congestion, guests are encouraged to park at the
Presbyterian Church lot and catch a ride on the shuttle, which will be running
every 30 minutes. There is no charge to ride the shuttle.
No bikes or pets will be allowed on the grounds, but visitors are encouraged
to bring a blanket or lawn chairs and spend the day at the event.
Ponca Bowmen Continue Archery Tradition
By LAURA TREADWAY
News Staff Writer
Hercules, William the Conqueror and Genghis Khan shared a common regard
for archery, one of the oldest arts of ancient times. The Ponca Bowmen continue
this tradition.
The use of the bow probably dates back over 3,000 years, according to the
National Archery Association of the U.S. Originally, the bow allowed prehistoric
man to hunt, thereby playing an important role in many of the world's civilizations.
When firearms replaced the bow as a weapon, archery prevailed as a favored
sport. Consequently, several members of the Ponca Bowmen Club took up archery
as a way to hunt.
The Ponca Bowman gathered at their range by Lake Ponca for the last shoot
of the year, Sept. 22. Approximately 35 men, women and children shot at
forty 3-D targets throughout the day.
Many bowmen were preparing for hunting season, others simply enjoyed the
day with family and friends.
"I sold my shotgun and picked up a bow," commented one archer.
"It is more of a challenge and makes you appreciate what the Indians
had to go through."
"Archery is relaxing," said Ponca City Fire Department Deputy
Chief Dale Hicks. "It helps me unwind and provides an opportunity to
get outside."
Nick Morris, president of the Ponca Bowmen, stated, "Archery is an
easy-going sport. I enjoy it with my wife and friends. It's a no-pressure
sport," he added.
The bowmen recently elected new officers. Morris was re-elected as president;
Max Horn became vice president and Terry Jordan remained secretary/treasurer.
Membership dues are $20 and include a key to the facility for use at any
time.
The club hosts one shoot each month from January through September. Cost
to participate is $5 for members and $7 for non-members.
The club facility includes approximately 10 acres owned by the city. Trails
have been blazed where 3-D animal targets are installed, providing for a
realistic setting. In addition, bales are available for target practice.
Members volunteer to maintain the grounds.
The majority of Ponca Bowmen use compound bows, which are created from a
single bar of stock, often aluminum and magnesium. The wheel on each end
of a compound bow is the most noticeable difference from the age-old bow.
Cost of a compound bow runs from $250 to $700, depending on how it is equipped.
Several members still use the traditional or long bow.
The risk of injury in archery remains low. The sport can be enjoyed individually
or in a group and is considered easy to learn. The young and old, big and
small can partake in the tradition either for pleasure or for competition.
For more information on the Ponca Bowmen, contact Morris at 765-2827.
Boyer Elected To Full Term With OMPA
EDMOND - Lyndon D. "Lyn" Boyer, City Commissioner of Ponca City,
was elected Wednesday to serve a full three-year term on the Oklahoma Municipal
Power Authority's (OMPA) board of directors.
Boyer, a Conoco retiree and a Ponca City resident for more than 35 years,
has been on the OMPA board since his appointment in May. His election to
the full term came during the authority's 16th annual electors' meeting.
During his 33-plus years at Conoco, Boyer worked with budgets and proposals
in the research and engineering (now technology) department and helped plan
the major R&D West facility. He holds several U.S. and foreign patents
on petroleum processes.
OMPA is a state agency serving cities and towns that own and operate their
electrical distribution systems. The authority currently serves 35 municipally
owned electric systems in Oklahoma.
DEATHS
Rilma Edna Allen
NEWKIRK - Rilma Edna Allen, longtime Arkansas City resident, died Wednesday
night, Oct. 2, 1996, in Medicalodge North, Arkansas City, Kan. She was 81.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Friday in the Miller-Stahl Funeral Chapel
in Newkirk with the Rev. Jim Littlefield, minister, Arkansas City First
Southern Baptist Church, officiating. Burial will follow in the Newkirk
Cemetery.
Rilma Edna (Rutter) Allen was born Oct. 18, 1914, in Geuda Springs, Kan.,
the daughter of Oliver Perry and Gladys Edna (King) Rutter. She grew up
and received her education in Geuda Springs, where she graduated from high
school.
On Jan. 15, 1938, she was married to Eugene M. Allen at Arkansas City, and
the couple established their first home in the IXL Community south of Arkansas
City. While her husband served with the U.S. Navy, they lived in Norfolk,
Va. After his discharge, the couple lived in Silverdale, Kan., later moving
to Arkansas City. Mrs. Allen enjoyed quilting and embroidering.
Survivors include one son, Stephen Eugene "Steve" Allen of Arkansas
City; one daughter, Carolyn Sue Larssen of Newkirk; three brothers, Willis
Rutter of Coffeyville, Kan., Leo Rutter of Colorado, and Lyle Rutter of
Rock Island, Ill.; one sister, Maxine Coffee of Arkansas City; five grandchildren;
two step-grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Gene, on Feb. 12, 1996; her parents;
one brother, Oliver Rutter; and one grandson.
George A. Ratliff
FAIRFAX - George A. Ratliff, former longtime Fairfax area resident, died
Wednesday, Oct. 2, 1996, at the South Central Kansas Regional Medical Center
in Arkansas City, Kan. He was 63.
The funeral will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Church of the First Born
in Ralston and burial will follow in the Fairfax (Okla.) Cemetery under
the direction of Hawks Funeral Home of Arkansas City. The casket will remain
closed at the funeral home, but friends may visit at the church in Ralston
from 11 a.m. to service time, Saturday.
George A. Ratliff was born June 17, 1933, in Ralston, the son of Oscar Raymond
and Mona Mae (Drake) Ratliff. He was married to Imogene Miller on July 16,
1952, in Bartlesville and the couple made their home in Fairfax until moving
to Arkansas City in 1990. Ratliff was employed in the oil fields for many
years. He was a member of the Church of the First Born, Ralston.
Survivors include his wife, Imogene of the home in Arkansas City, Kan.;
six daughters, Quazetta Brown, Betty Kent, Delores Yount and Brenda Walker,
all of Arkansas City, Peggy Meadows of Ponca City, and Myrtle Hundley of
Fairfax; his mother, Mona McGee of Fairfax; two brothers, Ralph of Ralston
and Henry of Cushing; one sister, Emma Cochran of Portales, N.M.; and 27
grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father and step-father, Paul
McGee.
Bessie Mae Burton
CHULA VISTA, Calif. - Bessie Mae Burton, mother of Dorothy Graesch of Ponca
City, died at her home in Chula Vista, Calif. Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1996. She
was 86.
At the request of Ms. Burton, no services were planned and her remains were
donated to the University of Southern California School of Medicine at San
Diego, Calif.
Bessie May Burton was born Nov. 19, 1909 in Naylor, Ark. She had resided
in California for more than 50 years where she owned and operated restaurants.
Survivors in addition to Mrs. Graesch include three daughters and a son
and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family has requested no flowers but memorial contributions may be made
in Ms. Burton's name to the Prince of Peace Church, c/o Joanne Monger, 2800
Turner, Ponca City, OK 74604.
Funerals
Friday
Clayta B. Francis - Funeral will be held graveside at 2 p.m. in the Ozark
Memorial Cemetery in Joplin, Mo., under the direction of Grace Memorial
Chapel, Ponca City. Friends may visit at the funeral home until 9 p.m. today.
Services Pending
Michael Don Taylor
NEWKIRK - Michael Don Taylor, Newkirk resident, died Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1996,
at his home. He was 38. Arrangements are pending and will be announced later
by Trout Funeral Home, Ponca City.
NEWS BRIEFS
Sports Card Show - The Ponca City Collectors Club is sponsoring a Sports
Card Show Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Marland Mansion Chapel
during Oktoberfest. Although there is a $2 admission at the Oktoberfest
gate, there is no additional admission charge for the card show. For information,
call 762-9471.
Junior Baseball Meeting Set - Ponca City Junior Baseball meeting to elect
the 1997 board and officers will be held tonight from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at
the Fourth Street Clubhouse.
To Graduate from Boot Camp - Airman Gordon L. Matzinger of the U.S. Navy
Division 406 will graduate Boot Camp Oct. 11 at Great Lakes, Ill., Naval
Training Center. Gordon is the son of Danny and Brenda Stolhand of Ponca
City. He's also the brother of Keagan and Kaelyn Stolhand and the grandson
of Fred and Mary Stolhand. After graduation, Matzinger will attend his "A"
school and apprenticeship program in Great Lakes. He is a graduate of Po-Hi
Class of 1996. He has been in the delayed entry program since August 1995.
Dance Canceled - The Seventh Grade Dance at Grand Central Station set for
Friday has been canceled due to a school conflict.
Fire - The Ponca City Police Department received a call that a car was on
fire a half mile north of U.S. 60 on McCord Road at 10:38 a.m. Wednesday.
McCord Fire Department responded and handled the call.
Burglary - A woman in the 700 block of Marland Drive advised the Ponca City
Police Department at 11:19 a.m. Wednesday that someone broke into the residence
and took their Nintendo. An officer took a burglary report.
Vandalism - The Ponca City Police Department received a call from a woman
in the 1100 block of North First Street who reported the windshield of her
car was broken. An officer took a report at 1:19 p.m. Wednesday.
Vandalism - A Ponca City police officer took a report of vandalism in the
2000 block of North Union Street at 1:44 p.m. Wednesday.
Arrested - A 25-year-old man was arrested in the 1100 block of East Prospect
Avenue at 2:33 p.m. Wednesday for trespassing and a city warrant for failure
to pay.
Burglary - A Ponca City police officer took a burglary report at a business
in the 700 block of North Fourteenth Street at 4:17 p.m. Wednesday. Reportedly,
the door was forced open and items were scattered everywhere.
Subject Held - A Ponca City police officer arrested a 17-year-old boy in
the 1100 block of East Prospect Avenue at 4:58 p.m. Wednesday for petit
larceny.
In Custody - A 51-year-old man was taken into custody by a Ponca City police
officer in the 1700 block of Mary Street at 7 p.m. Wednesday on a city warrant
for maintaining a dog pen within 30 feet of a dwelling.
Shoplifters - A Ponca City police officer issued citations to two girls
who were caught shoplifting at a business in the 1100 block of East Prospect
Avenue at 9 p.m. The girls were released to the custody of their parents.
Arrested - A 29-year-old man was arrested by a Ponca City police officer
at 12:30 p.m. Thursday in the 800 block of South Fourteenth Street on a
city warrant.
SPORTS
Morrison Puts No. 1 Ranking on Line
By DAVID BROWN
News Associate Sports Editor
North central Oklahoma plays host to one of the biggest non-district games
of the season this Friday night when fifth-ranked Christian Heritage travels
to top-ranked Morrison in an eight-man showdown.
But that game is just one of several exciting contests that will take place
on area fields this week as Newkirk-Tonkawa and Pawnee-Hominy also renew
their longstanding rivalries.
In other area high school football games, Blackwell is at McLoud, Woodland
travels to Oklahoma Union, Billings hosts Wakita and Deer Creek-Lamont is
at Ringwood.
The News' featured area games this week are Morrison-Christian Heritage
and Newkirk-Tonkawa.
Christian Heritage at Morrison, 7:30
Despite carrying a somewhat controversial AP ranking of fifth, Christian
Heritage has walloped third-ranked Pioneer and fourth ranked Oklahoma Christian
School. Christian Heritage's only loss came at the hands of second-ranked
Burns Flat.
Any ranking at all comes as a surprise, though, considering that Heritage
is not a member of the OSSAA and instead plays in a Christian school post
season tournament.
Since they are not eligible for the state Class B playoffs, a win this week
at Morrison would solidify Heritage as the best 8-man team in the state.
"This is one of those games that doesn't mean anything, but means a
lot," Morrison head coach Joe Sindelar said. "For our confidence,
beating Christian Heritage would prove we can play with any of the top schools."
Sindelar says that Heritage has "been in midseason form since the get-go."
"John Merrill is one of the best coaches around, and he has these kids
clicking on all cylinders," Sindelar continued. "Their quarterback
is throwing the deep fade routes right on the numbers and they have a great
running back in Jansen.
"They are a lot like us in many regards. We both have a go-to running
back that weighs about 195 pounds and small, quick linemen."
Sindelar said the crucial aspects of the game will be the first quarter
and turnovers.
"The two critical parts for us is drawing first blood in the first
quarter and avoiding turnovers. OCS had eight turnovers against them and
got blown out. Pioneer also had some early turnovers and got behind. When
they lost to Burns Flat, Christian Heritage threw three interceptions and
that allowed Burns Flat to get on top early. Turnovers will be a big key
in the ball game."
Morrison will have to go without starting quarterback Ryan Luter for the
second straight week. Luter has a small stress fracture in the lower part
of a leg and will not play for another two weeks.
Senior Phillip Cowley goes in his stead. Also, Beech Prigmore moves out
to end and E.P. Long moves into the offensive line.
Morrison hasn't lost a home game since 1987 - and that was an 11-man
game against Crescent.
Tonkawa at Newkirk, 7:30
These two Kay County rivals have the added incentive of being in the same
district this season and Tonkawa is threatening to get off to a 4-0 start
in District A-5.
The 3-1 Buccaneers have already knocked off Mounds and Barnsdall, two playoff
challengers, and a win over Newkirk would nearly cement a playoff spot.
"This is really a pivotal district game for us," Tonkawa head
coach Steve Love said. "If we win, that kind of puts us in the playoffs.
We should really beat everyone else and then that sets up a championship
showdown with Woodland. But that's a long ways off. We have to take care
of business this week."
Newkirk is 2-2 overall and 1-1 in the district with a home loss to Mounds
and a close win over Barnsdall. A win this week would also go a long ways
in getting the Tigers to the postseason.
"Our kids are up for the game," Newkirk head coach David Caffey
said. "This is a big rivalry. They've forgotten about last week (a
lopsided loss to Cassady) and are ready to play. The main thing we have
to do is hang onto the football. We had four fumbles and two interceptions
against Cassady and Tonkawa does a good job of taking advantage of turnovers.
"I think our offense can move the football," Caffey continued.
"It has all year. But we must avoid turnovers."
Neither team reported any injuries.
Blackwell at McLoud, 7:30
For first-year Blackwell head coach Mike Monroe, a ranking of ninth this
week for his 4-0 Maroons brings the added worries of concentration.
"Hopefully we'll be ready," Monroe said. "I want the kids
to keep focused and they've been doing a great job of that. Sometimes when
you're undefeated and probably a little better than your opponent a team
can lose focus. But these guys are still learning and they're not getting
too far ahead of themselves."
McLoud is 2-2 overall and 1-0 in District 4A-2 after beating Cleveland 42-14
last week.
"This is a key game for them. They have big linemen and a decent quarterback,
no one outstanding, but they are capable of beating you if you're not ready
to play," said Monroe.
Woodland at Oklahoma Union, 7:30
Third-ranked Woodland should have little trouble disposing of 0-4 Oklahoma
Union in a District A-5 matchup. Woodland is 2-0 in the district and 3-0
overall. Three of Union's losses have come against district foes.
"They're another OU," Pascoe joked about Oklahoma Union, which
has given up 139 points in four games for an average of 34.75 points - which
is just slightly higher than the Sooners' average points allowed of 34.0
per game.
"They really don't look that bad on film but they've had five interceptions
returned for touchdowns in the last two games. So, when teams are scoring
on their defense and their offense, that leads to some lopsided scores,"
said Pascoe.
Woodland will again go with J.W. Brumley at quarterback with Tyler Barnard
still nursing a severe ankle sprain.
All Brumley did last week was throw for three touchdowns with no interceptions
in Woodland's 40-6 win over Liberty.
Hominy at Pawnee, 7:30
The Black Bears picked up a huge win over District 2A-5 foe Perkins last
week for their first victory of the season while Hominy 2-2, 1-0) sneaked
past Nowata 16-14 in that district opener.
Hominy has gotten the better of the Black Bears in recent years but Pawnee
has seen improvement in each game, culminating in the upset of Perkins last
week.
Billings hosts Wakita, 7:30
The Bulldogs of Billings (1-3, 0-1) played fourth-ranked Medford tough last
week in a 38-8 District C-3 loss and hope to rebound this week against Wakita,
a 32-0 loser to Ringwood.
Wakita is now 2-2 and 0-1.
DCLA at Ringwood, 7:30
Ringwood opened with a district win last week while DCLA took it on the
chin in a 33-8 loss to Kremlin. The Eagles are 2-2 on the season.
Shidler at White Oak, 7:30
White Oak had to go overtime in a District C-4 opening game win over Welch
last week while Shidler was an 18-12 upset loser to Bowlegs. That loss makes
this week's district game even more important for the Tigers, who are 3-1
overall.
Guess Set To Focus On Defense
By FRED HILTON
News Sports Editor
Marlon Guess is willing to give up a glory position for one than means a
lot of hard work and not very much recognition.
Guess, a high school blue chip football player, will give up much of his
time as a wide receiver to concentrate on his cornerback slot.
"I'll still play on some passing downs," Guess said of the changes
brought about when coach Rick Sodowsky decided to have fewer players playing
both ways this week. "But now I'll have more time to concentrate on
defense. I like defense a lot better."
Guess was selected in the preseason as one of the top cornerbacks in the
state. But that honor also brings responsibility. Because of his speed and
agility, Guess is usually pitted against the best receiver the opposing
team has to offer.
He has been credited with two passes broken up while finding time to recover
a fumble and be in on 18 tackles, seven unassisted.
He shares the solo tackles lead on the coaches' defensive charts with safety
Dennis Shields and end Wesley Swygert.
"I like the challenge," he said of going against the best receivers
each week.
This week, the 5-9, 174 pound Guess will be pitted against Enid's Donald
Shoals (5-11, 170 senior) or Scott Swiggett (6-0, 168 junior).
"They've got some big backs and receivers." Guess said of the
Plainsmen. "They're not that big in the line."
Guess says the Cats have had a good week of practice so far as they return
to the basics in an effort to cut down on mistakes. He also feels having
fewer players playing on both sides of the ball will help.
"Some of the players going both ways get tired late in the game,"
he notes.
But the senior feels what the Cats need most is some leadership and better
effort.
"No one has stepped up to lead the way," he said. "We need
someone to do that."
Guess feels Enid's Homecoming may work against the Plainsmen.
"It's got us fired up," he said," to know they would pick
us for Homecoming. They think they can beat us. I don't think they can."
Last Friday's lopsided loss to Stillwater didn't produce many defensive
highlights, but there were some impressive individual performances.
Linebackers Stockton Graves and Chance Throop continue to lead the tackle
charts. Graves was in on 14 tackles against the Pioneers, two unassisted.
He now has 52 total tackles on the season.
Throop had four tackles against Stillwater and has 33 on the season.
Wesley Swygert both blocked and recovered a Stillwater field goal attempt.
Cornerback Anthony Tillman collected his second interception of the season.
Throop, Jay Bentley and Guess all recovered Stillwater fumbles. Linemen
David Newland and Aaron Kreger were credited with causing fumbles.
Defensive Stats
Week 4
Player A U T FR Int
Graves 44 8 52 1 1
Throop 28 5 33 1 0
Newland 23 6 29 0 0 Shields
20 7 27 1 0
W. Swyg. 21 6 27 0 0
Kreger 20 5 25 0 0
B Swyg. 16 7 23 0 0
Guess 11 7 18 1 0
Chapman 14 3 17 1 0 Taylor 8 3 11
0 0
Tillman 5 4 9 0 2
Bentley 6 1 7 1 1
Keller 0 5 5 0 0
Jones 3 1 4 0 0
Harrison 2 1 3 1 0
Hill 2 0 2 0 1
Burkett 1 0 1 0 0
Foster 0 0 0 1 0 Redleaf 0 1 1
0 0
Fowler 1 0 1 0 0
Stewart 1 0 1 0 0
Brune 1 0 1 0 0
Caused Fumbles
Taylor, Throop, Kreger (3), Chapman, Graves, Newland
Broke Up Pass
Throop (3), Shields (2), B. Swygert (2), Guess (2), Jones, Taylor, Harrison,
Graves
Blocked Field Goal
W. Swygert
Area Football District Standings
District Standings
Week 4
District 4A-2
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Blackwell 1-0 4-0 150 46
Cushing 1-0 4-0 147 54
McLoud 1-0 2-2 71 92
Glenpool 1-0 1-3 22 115
Tecumseh 0-1 1-3 79 68
Mannford 0-1 1-3 68 92
Cleveland 0-1 1-3 57 94
Harrah 0-1 1-3 35 116
This Week's Games
Blackwell at McLoud, Cushing at Harrah, Mannford at Cleveland, Tecumseh
at Glenpool.
District 2A-5
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Berryhill 1-0 4-0 184 25
Hominy 1-0 2-2 55 68
Pawnee 1-0 1-3 42 85
Sperry 1-0 1-3 81 72
Nowata 0-1 2-2 74 82
Perkins 0-1 3-1 135 26
Metro Chr. 0-1 1-3 63 93
Caney Valley 0-1 1-3 34 158
This Week's Games
Hominy at Pawnee, Sperry at Berryhill, Nowata at Metro Christian, Perkins
at Caney Valley.
District A-5
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Tonkawa 3-0 3-1 117 58
Woodland 2-0 4-0 110 32
Mounds 2-1 3-1 120 74
Drumright 2-1 3-1 59 48
Newkirk 1-1 2-2 73 92
Kiefer 1-2 1-3 90 105
Liberty 1-2 2-2 53 88
Barnsdall 0-2 1-3 79 66
Okla. Union 0-3 0-4 56 139
This Week's Games
Tonkawa at Newkirk, Woodland at Oklahoma Union, Drumright at Mounds, Kiefer
at Barnsdall, Afton at Liberty.
District B-3
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Morrison 0-0 4-0 114 68
Yale 0-0 4-0 218 64
Foyil 0-0 3-1 142 54
So. Coffey. 0-0 2-2 108 96
Prue 0-0 1-2 38 72
Copan 0-0 1-3 94 109
This Week's Games
Christian Heritage at Morrison, Yale at Bluejacket, Foyil at Ketchum, Chetopa,
Kan. at Copan, Butner at Prue, South Coffeyville at Oswego, Kan.
District C-3
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
PC-Hunter 1-0 4-0 129 86
Medford 1-0 3-1 119 50
Kremlin-Hills. 1-0 2-2 105 70
Ringwood 1-0 2-2 56 26
Cov-Douglas 0-1 2-2 148 113
Wakita 0-1 2-2 92 108
DCLA 0-1 2-2 106 124
Billings 0-1 1-3 64 116
This Week's Games
Wakita at Billings, DCLA at Ringwood, Covington-Douglas at Medford, Pond
Creek-Hunter at Kremlin.
District C-4
Dist. All
School W-L W-L PF PA
Bowlegs 1-0 2-2 56 79
White Oak 1-0 3-1 120 88
Butner 0-0 1-2 48 78
Bluejacket 0-0 1-3 79 140
Welch 0-1 1-3 62 119
Shidler 0-1 3-1 118 54
This Week's Games
Shidler at White Oak, Welch at Bowlegs, Yale at Bluejacket, Butner at Prue.
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